Glass

This module is aimed at a middle school level. In this module students learn about the strange properties of glass; the fact that it is neither a solid nor a liquid. It then examines the way in which nanotechnology can be used to change and improve on something as simple as normal glass, in so many ways. This can be used as a starting point or example of the way in which nanotechnology has opened up many new avenues and the huge potential for nanotechnology to greatly change and effect our lives in the future.

Module Overview

In this module, students look at the strange properties of glass, investigating its chemistry and how it is made and used.

Students are asked a number of ‘what if’ questions to start them thinking about ways in which glass could be modified eg to be self cleaning. They then learn about a number of different ways in which nanotechnology can be used to alter glass and the new properties this gives the glass.

Students also undertake two experiments in which they learn how the properties of glass can be changed

• Module Guide Word (88kb)

• Module Presentation Powerpoint (2.4mb)

Experiment 1: Magic Sand

In the first experiment students learn about the difference between hydrophobic and hydrophilic, by comparing the qualities of magic sand and normal sand.

• Experiment Guide Word (152kb)

• Experiment Word (60kb)

Experiment 2: Adding a monolayer

Further to the previous experiment, students then investigate how glass can be given hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties, by coating glass with a monolayer of silver and of alkanetheniol and comparing their surface properties.

• Experiment Guide Word (96kb)

• Experiment Word (92kb)